Concerning – Usage, Meaning & Synonyms

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Candace Osmond

Candace Osmond studied Advanced Writing & Editing Essentials at MHC. She’s been an International and USA TODAY Bestselling Author for over a decade. And she’s worked as an Editor for several mid-sized publications. Candace has a keen eye for content editing and a high degree of expertise in Fiction.

We use the word “concerning” in both written and spoken English, but I know its meaning and grammatical function can sometimes be unclear because there are multiple contexts it can be used for. So, I’ll dive into the meaning of the word “concerning,” how to use it as a preposition, and some synonyms you can use in its place.

Meaning of the Word Concerning

Concerning Usage Meaning Synonyms

First and foremost, let’s start with the definition. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, “concerning” is an adjective that basically means something is troubling. You are concerned when something is concerning. Make sense?

But you can also use it as a preposition—more on that in just a second.

How Do You Spell Concerning?

The word, whether used as an adjective or preposition, is spelled as c-o-n-c-e-r-n-i-n-g and pronounced as kuhn-sur-nuhng.

Is Concerning a Preposition?

Now, the big question is whether “concerning” is a preposition. The answer is yes!

We use “concerning” as both an adjective and a preposition. As a preposition, you can use it to point to a subject or topic, and it should be followed by a noun or pronoun. You’d have it in place where you’d usually put the word “about” or “regard to.”

  • I have some questions concerning the project you assigned.
  • The book I recommended provides information concerning the topic.

Disconcerting vs. Concerning

Concerning Usage Meaning Synonyms 1

One common mistake I often see people make is using “disconcerting” instead of “concerning” in a statement. Sure, they may sound similar, but I assure you their meanings have an ocean of differences.

“Disconcerting” means causing someone to feel unsettled or confused.

  • The sudden noise was disconcerting.

But then, “concerning” relates to a particular subject or topic or, as a preposition, is another word for about.

  • Adjective: My friend’s teenage daughter has come concerning behavior.
  • Preposition: I have a meeting later this afternoon concerning the new product launch.

So, make sure you use the right word in the right context!

Synonyms for Concerning

As a Preposition

  • Regarding
  • About
  • With respect to
  • In relation to
  • Pertaining to
  • On the subject of

As an Adjective

  • Worrying
  • Troubling
  • Distressing
  • Disturbing
  • Upsetting

Sentence Examples Using the Word Concerning

As a Preposition

  • Amanda has some questions concerning the project that I need to discuss with her.
  • Here, this report provides all the information you need concerning the company’s financial performance.
  • The email I just sent contained essential details concerning the meeting this afternoon.
  • You should read this article; it raises some interesting points concerning climate change.
  • We need to have a conversation concerning your performance at work.

As an Adjective

  • I’m scared for our kids to become teens as their attitudes are already concerning.
  • My mother has some concerning opinions about LGBTQA+ topics.
  • Those dark clouds are pretty concerning; I think we should cancel the trip.

Don’t Be Concerned About Concerning

Now, go forth with confidence in using the word concerning. You can use concerning in several different contexts, whether it’s a preposition or an adjective. Just remember this:

  • adjective = troubling
  • preposition = about or regard to

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